NBA Offseason Overview
Typically, the NBA offseason is characterized by relative tranquility in terms of player transactions. The summer leagues have concluded, revealing the latest talents entering the league, and the free agency frenzy has mostly settled. However, this summer is uniquely intriguing as there are still four significant restricted free agents awaiting contracts: Josh Giddey, Quentin Grimes, Jonathan Kuminga, and Cam Thomas. Their unsigned status not only impacts team rosters but also has implications for fantasy basketball leagues as they approach the 2025-26 season.
Player Profiles
Josh Giddey – Chicago Bulls
The young point guard Josh Giddey, formerly with the Oklahoma City Thunder, saw a change of scenery when he was traded to the Chicago Bulls prior to his contract year. Despite a dip in scoring during the latter part of the 2023-24 season, Giddey had his most productive year overall, averaging 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists, and showcasing improved shooting stats with 46.5% from the field and 78.1% from the free-throw line. His performance secured him career highs in multiple categories, and he developed a solid partnership with fellow guard Coby White. Yet, his success wasn’t enough for Chicago to extend an offer matching the terms given to Orlando’s Jalen Suggs, valued at $30.1 million average annual salary. In fantasy assessments, Giddey ranked within the top 50 players in eight-category formats and barely made the top 60 in nine-category rankings, according to Basketball Monster. Should he remain with the Bulls, it’s anticipated that he would maintain or even enhance his fantasy value, especially with significant roster changes around him.
Quentin Grimes – Philadelphia 76ers
On the other hand, guard Quentin Grimes has navigated an interesting transition. Acquired by the Philadelphia 76ers during the trade deadline, he was part of a deal that sent Caleb Martin to the Mavericks and included a second-round pick that became promising prospect Johni Broome. Grimes notably stepped up offensively late in the season, posting an impressive 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game in the final 28 games, but it’s essential to recognize that he benefited from the absences of key players like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Next season’s production for Grimes is still uncertain as it heavily depends on the availability of Embiid and Paul George. Should George miss games, Grimes could gain greater value and potentially be a sleeper pick in fantasy drafts, significantly different from his lesser-known status at the beginning of last year.
Jonathan Kuminga – Golden State Warriors
Meanwhile, Jonathan Kuminga‘s tenure with the Golden State Warriors hangs in the balance amidst this summer’s free agency. The Warriors have not yet made any new signings, and Kuminga’s contract situation plays a crucial role in their roster decisions. Kuminga has been contemplating either a new contract that may meet his expectations or settling for a qualifying offer that could see him enter unrestricted free agency next year. Though reports indicate interest from teams like Phoenix and Sacramento, any sign-and-trade scenario would require cooperation from Golden State. After a season marred by injuries, where he only played 47 games, Kuminga’s fantasy stock dropped significantly, especially post Jimmy Butler’s acquisition. His limited playing time resulted in poor fantasy production, placing him far outside the top rankings. If he stays with the Warriors, his draft position is likely to fall well below last season’s average draft position of 91.
